Pipework problems when cancer spreads to an area bordering the brain

Tumours called dural metastases — those that spread to the outermost membrane surrounding the brain — do not just sit passively at the brain border. A picture is emerging of how extensively they restructure the surrounding area. Writing in Nature, Zeng et al.1 show that these tumours recruit cells called osteoclasts, which naturally degrade bone. Moreover, the osteoclasts disrupt fluid ‘pipes’ adjacent to the brain called meningeal lymphatic vessels and blunt local anti-tumour immune responses. This evidence reveals several possible targets in efforts to develop therapies.

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doi: https://doi.org/10.1038/d41586-026-02783-z

References

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